Replace your shower taps in five steps
There’s no better driver than the steady drip, drip, drip of a leaky shower to inspire you to upgrade your shower tap. But is it easy to do on your own? Or should you call in the experts?
Good news – replacing shower taps is something anyone can do. No plumber necessary! And, you can do it in under an hour. Just follow these five simple steps.
Getting started
This guide covers how to change your shower taps, but it won’t go into too much detail about shower heads. That’s because replacing a shower head is even easier – simply unscrew your old unit and screw in the new one. Taps require a bit more attention, so here’s what you need to get started.
Your tool checklist:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Old towel
- Scrub brush
Pro tip: Quality taps last a good 15-20 years, so it’s important to spend some time selecting the right hardware for your space. From sleek ceiling showers to stunning wall showers, places like Abey Australia have a stylish range of fixtures to suit any bathroom interior. Plus, when you visit the showroom, they’ll be able to share some installation tips.
Step 1: Turn off your water supply
Begin by shutting off the water supply to your bathroom. Return to your bathroom and turn the shower on, letting it run until the water stops. Then turn the tap into the off position again. Place your old towel below to help prevent damage to the tiles from any dropped tools or parts.
Step 2: Remove the old fixture
Start by removing the tap button. This will be located in a different place depending on your shower tap.
If you have a mixer tap – a single handle that controls the temperature – you will likely find this button under the handle. Pillar taps (individual handles controlling temperatures) often have the button located under the hot and cold indicators. You can remove this button with your screwdriver.
From there, the handle should pop off. You’ll next remove the retaining collar – it should easily unscrew by hand. You’ll then need your wrench to remove the retaining nut and cartridge. You might notice a bit of water dripping out, but don’t worry that’s normal and will stop.
Finally, use your screwdriver to pop off the plate surrounding the fixture and unscrew the head of the unit.
Step 3: Clean the threads
You’re almost ready to install your new shower taps. But before you do, it’s important to give the threads (the exposed waterline pipes) a clean. Grab your scrub brush and clean out any grit and grime.
Step 4: Attach your new shower taps
To attach your new taps, you’ll essentially follow step two in reverse. Tightly screw the head on, then the cartridge, retaining nut, covers and finally, the handle.
If you have any questions about how to install the new tap, be sure to ask. The manufacturer will be able to give you the best advice for your particular model.
Step 5: Enjoy your new shower
Voilà – your new shower is ready to go. Turn your water back on and jump in. You’ve earned it!
Whether you’re fixing a frustrating leak or giving your bathroom a makeover, Abey Australia can help you find a style to complement your space. Head to your local Abey Selection Gallery to view our range of shower taps in person.
